At GiantMouse, we are always interested in the different relationships people have with their blades. For this installment of Knifestyles, we talk to the SVP of North America and Global Retail for Christopher Ward, Mike Pearson about his English beginnings, tools of the trade, and lifelong connection to craftsmanship.
If you’re part of the GiantMouse Knives community, chances are you’ve crossed paths—directly or indirectly—with Christopher Ward at shows and events. As neighbors in the world of craftsmanship, both brands share a focus on design, quality, and the communities that form around them—something Mike Pearson has helped bring to life.
Originally from the middle of England, Mike’s path has taken him far beyond what he first imagined. After moving to the U.S. in 2006, he spent over a decade in Michigan before continuing on to New York City and now Texas. His work has carried him across 44 states, shaping a belief that you understand a place best through its food, music, and sports—often explored via a local ballpark or independent restaurant.
Today, as SVP of North America and Global Retail for Christopher Ward, Mike is helping evolve the brand from a direct-to-consumer pioneer into something more experiential, with showrooms and events that foster real connection. At the center of it all is what drives him most: meeting people, sharing stories, and building lasting relationships within a passionate community.
The Knifestyles of Mike Pearson
What originally got you into knives?
To be completely honest, being from the UK, this level of knife was never really part of my upbringing. That said, like a lot of young lads—especially those of us who were in the Boy Scouts—I always had a fascination with them. I carried a pocket knife back then and loved how it looked, how it felt, and how it fit into everyday life. Even something like a Swiss Army knife was an early version of what we now call EDC—everyday carry. Looking back, that appreciation for form and function was always there, even if the exposure to higher-end knives came much later.
How do knives fit into your life?
These days, with how much I travel, I’m very conscious of where and how I carry a knife. That said, there’s almost always a little GiantMouse “nibbler” tucked away in my suitcase—it’s incredibly useful at events and in all sorts of day-to-day scenarios. Alongside my watch and wallet, it’s just part of who I am now.
When I’m at home, I get to enjoy them a bit more freely. Whether it’s small jobs around the house or things in the yard, I can lean into the collection and actually use them properly. That’s when they really come into their own.
What is your favorite GiantMouse knife and why?
My first GiantMouse was the little “nibbler,” and that will always have a place for me. But once you spend time around Jim and the team, it’s a bit like watches—you can’t help but fall in love with the materials and the thought that goes into every piece.
With that in mind, my favorite has to be the GiantMouse Dive Knife. It’s a bit personal, as it was designed and conceptualized during my time as Global Brand Director at Zodiac Watches. It’s forged from N360 steel, which was specifically chosen for its exceptional corrosion resistance in marine environments, and it has a beautiful satin finish. It pairs perfectly with the aesthetic of a dive watch—especially something with heritage like the Sea Wolf. It’s one of those pieces where story, material, and purpose all come together.
If the apocalypse starts, what’s in your go-bag?
Oof—tough one. Honestly, as a dad, the first thing I’m grabbing is my kids and the dogs.
But in terms of tools, I’d want pieces I trust implicitly. My Christopher Ward Trident Pro 300 Bronze, my Muyshondt Electric flashlight, and my GiantMouse GMP12. There’s something about the weight and feel of that knife—it just inspires confidence. Simple, functional, and built to last.
Why do you think knives and watches go together?
I think it comes down to how people connect with the things they love. Some people are into sneakers, others into bags—I’ve always been a watch person, and now I’ve developed a real appreciation for knives.
When you’re passionate about something, you notice the finishing, the small details, the nuances. You appreciate the craftsmanship in a completely different way than someone who just needs a tool or simply wants to tell the time. Both knives and watches sit in that same space—they’re functional, yes, but they’re also expressions of creativity and engineering. That’s why they pair so naturally.
What advice would you give to someone looking to learn more about and buy watches?
Ask questions—lots of them. Do your research. But most importantly, try things on.
Walking straight into an authorized dealer and asking to try on a Rolex isn’t really where you start. Go somewhere approachable—your local Macy’s, for example—and try on a Seiko, or even some fashion watches. Get a feel for sizes, proportions, and what suits you.
If you’ve got friends or family who wear watches, ask them about theirs. Why do they love it? What does it mean to them? Try to understand their perspective and see what resonates with you.
And if you’re lucky enough to have events like Windup Watch Fair nearby—go. Surround yourself with like-minded people. But at the end of the day, my mantra is simple: you do you. Buy what’s within your means and what genuinely makes you smile.
If you could switch lives with someone for a day, who would it be and what would you do?
I’d love to score a goal in front of 40,000 fans at my favorite football club.
As much as I love being a dad, a husband, and a VP for a brand I truly believe in, football has always been my escape—the purest form of the game. And my club, Aston Villa, has always been a huge part of my life.
For me, it’s never really been about the name on the back of the shirt—it’s the badge on the front. To live that moment, even just once, would be something special.
What is your most prized possession, and why is it important to you?
I have two watches that will never leave me. One I wore when both of my kids were born, and the other on my wedding day.
They’re special not just because of what they are, but because of what they represent. They remind me that time truly matters—and that those moments were, without question, the best of my life.
What’s your life motto?
I’ve got a few, but one that’s always stuck with me comes from my upbringing. I went to Catholic school, and while that’s not necessarily the core of how I live my life today, there are values that have stayed with me.
Treat people how you want to be treated. If you do that—personally and professionally—you’ll always be able to look at yourself with pride.
"I want to quickly acknowledge and thank Jim and the GiantMouse team. You are a huge part of our community and I'm so glad to have shared dinners with you, worked alongside you and I’m so proud to call you friends. Congrats on all you've built and I cannot wait to see you all soon."
Discover Mike Pearson's Favorites
Mike has great taste in knives! So great, that some of his favorites are sold out. We replaced the ACE Nibbler and the GMP12 with the ACE Riv - Titanium Blackout! Small & compact like the ACE Nibbler, but with a blackout look like the GMP12.
The GiantMouse Team would like to thank Mike Pearson for taking a break from his adventures to talk shop with us. Keep an eye out for more Knifestyle profiles coming soon!